This article summarizes the clinical and research literature on the psychosocial adjustment of the Southeast Asian refugees in the United States and proposes the adoption of theoretical models that may be helpful in explaining individual differences in adjustment processes. Available evidence indicates that depression and stress-related symptoms are commonly found in refugees, whereas age, English proficiency, and socioeconomic indicators have been correlated with adjustment variables. Acculturation, learned helplessness, and stress management models appear to be beneficial in conceptualizing refugee adjustment problems and in providing a rational foundation for future research efforts.
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